Each device with a NIC contains a unique identifier, known as a (n) ___ address, which distinguishes it from any other network-connected device in the world.

Media Access Control (MAC)

Explanation:

Every device that has a network interface card (NIC) contains a unique identifier called MAC address which differentiates it from other networking devices all over the world. It is also called a physical or hardware address. MAC addresses are integrated into the NIC of networking devices.

MAC addresses are a 12-digit hexadecimal number usually separated by a colon.

Note that a 12-digit hexadecimal implies also that it is a 6-byte (or 48-bit) number.

An example of a MAC address (in hexadecimal) is as follows;

00:0A:D8:12:E5:13